1- Wear your comfiest clothes
You never know what kind of journey you will have and so it's better to be prepared for every situation. In doing this, I always wear baggy pants/leggings, a comfy top and always have a scarf in my daypack just incase the air con is unstoppable.
2- Wear hiking boots/comfy shoes
Wearing your hiking boots (if you have some) is best as it makes your backpack a lot lighter and they are comfy for that potentially long walk to the hostel.
3- Keep valuables close
I've learned from experience but having your valuable close to you during a trip is always a must do. For many reasons eg. you can keep them safe and also if your bag manages to go missing or the bus leaves without you (it happens) then at least you have all of your pride possessions with you.
5- Pack snacks
In the rare case that a bus won't stop for food breaks or a plane charges ridiculous prices for food or you don't trust whatever theyr selling covered in flies on a train in India, then have peace of mind in knowing you have back up. The best options are fruit, sandwiches, samosas, pastries or just plain old crisps/cookies. Don't forget water.
4- Tell somebody your plan
It may sound a bit ridiculous to tell someone your every move, no wait, that's kind of normal in today's society right? Nevertheless put a post on Facebook or write a msg to a friend or family member about where you are going and staying. That way if anything happens, people know where you are.
6- IPod/IPad
You may be going on a long journey or a short journey but no matter what, it's always better to be prepared for those potential delays. I invested in an IPad last year which is amazing because -the battery lasts ages, theyr portable, watch movies, listen to music. An IPod or mp3 is also ideal for occupying time.
7- Pack eye mask and ear plugs
For obvious reasons, if you're a light sleeper like myself who finds it hard to sleep in awkward places then these two items can help. Eye masks block out light providing a better chance to fall asleep and ear plugs will keep the noise out. Invest in these :)
8- Book/Journal
For anybody documenting their travels take a journal on your trip as you will have tonnes of free time to think back on your experiences and scribble them down. Also a book for people who like to read, you will have plenty of time to get through a few chapters of your favourite book before you arrive to your destination... You may even need two!
9- Toiletries
For both men and woman toiletries are useful to have on a trip. Keep hand sanitiser, tissues, mouth wash and face wipes in your day pack for those moments when you may need to make use of the dodgy public bathrooms. Face wipes and mouth wash can keep you refreshed during a long transit.
10- Mobile power bank
These are one of the best inventions yet and you can purchase them in any electrical shop for different price ranges. Pre charge it before a transit because you never know when you may need to make an emergency call and there are no power outlets. The more expensive ones last longer but the cheap ones are still good for at least one charge.
This was purchased at Big W for $8 and once fully charged it will charge my phone once or twice before needing to be pre charged again.